How can anyone question Bird being THE GOAT of basketball? Heck I would say the GOAT of team ball sports. I watched him play in Boston long ago and I'm still in awe of him watching his videos some 30 years later.
There's an MJ fan, Kareem fan, Wilt fan, or even LeBron fan who would feel the same way about there guy. Bird is on the short list, but to place the GOAT label on him is just subjective at best.
Larry GOAT Bird. He played forward, guard and center in every game and excelled in all positions: shooting, passing, rebounding.... There has never been a player as great as Larry was.
1986 Boston Celtics in my opinion was the holy grail of professional basketball, so beautiful to watch the ball movement, the toughness, the blue collar attitude that these guys brought to the floor every night. Larry Bird was the greatest small forward to ever play the game, and I believe Kevin Mchale was the best power forward ever. Stone cold killers, never took a night off for load management, ready to fight at a moments notice if need be, injuries were just part of the game for them, they played through stuff that would sideline today’s players for weeks on end. Thanks for the memories.
I am not sure if Larry is really the greatest small forward to ever play the game…LeBron may have a question on that. Stone cold killers are what I agree with you. 1986 Boston Celtics is one of the greatest teams in NBA history, ever (Along with 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers).
@@zhugelianges It's a debate for sure...but I think Larry would excel in today's league and Lebron would (still be very good) struggle a (good) bit more in the 80's.. Of course we will never know but living through and avidly watching NBA during both eras I have to give the edge to Larry Joe.
@@zhugelianges Larry would destroy LeBron. He'd be flopping and there'd be no stopping. LeBron isn't a clutch player and Larry's trash talking would screw with his head to the point that he'd be useless. Look up the videos comparing the two on TH-cam. LeBron is a great athlete but I feel sorry for him. Flopping isn't normal in the first place. When he barely touches the other guy and bounces off of him hard and fast, especially when the other guy barely moves from it, it makes me question his mind. I think he needs help.
Maybe him playing through injuries is what gave his fans only 13 seasons to watch him. While everyone calls lebron soft for digging yet he’s about to play in his 20th season
There is NO DOUBT in my mind. Larry Joe Bird is the TRUE GOAT. He hustles, he gets everyone involved, he can do ANYTHING, his court awareness & b-ball IQ are second to none....plus his shooting, rebounding, passing, and CLUTCH ability. I’ve NEVER seen a more complete package!
Magic:"When I played, Larry Bird was the only one I feared. A lot of black guys always ask me, 'Did Larry Bird really play that good?' I said Larry Bird is so good it's frightening."
If you judge both the team and the player, Bird made those Celtics that played with him the greatest team of all time. Teams win championships, great players make their teams great. In this context Bird is the GOAT and there will likely never be anyone that comes close to the Birdman.
Was there anything this Larry Bird can’t do? Rebounds, assists, layups, fadeaway, passing, clutch shots, you name it. He did it all. Probably the best 3 point shooter of all time and if not definitely top 2 all time. Steph Curry is a phenomenal 3 point shooter but Larry is a true legend. I use Larry Bird as inspiration, his game and his quotes. Everything he worked for all about him was phenomenal. What a legend. Says something when Magic Johnson says your that good, that says it all.
As an old man who spent his life in Philadelphia I love and hate this man. I miss these great days of basketball, watching it on UHF channel 68 in Philly. Wasnt even on regular tv most nights. These guys made it worldwide
Love that turn around jumper at 19:22 When Bird retired, it was then that I too retired from watching NBA for it was just never the same! What great times they were! Thanks Larry Bird for all those unbelievable plays you made throughout your career! GOAT
My favourite player. There’s some sportsmen that make the game they play beautiful to watch. Federer does it, so did Zidane, Cruyff, Gareth Edwards and Sugar Ray Leonard to name a few in their respective sports. Bird made basketball an art form.
I felt that way about Ivan Lendl in tennis. Boris Becker came along and was better, but it was sheer power and not poetry in motion the way Lendl played.
Today’s generation will never understand how smart of a player Larry was. He used one muscle. The one in his head. I always here the question “could Larry play in today’s NBA?” My question is could today’s players handle getting beat up and pounded on all game playing the way they did back then. 🤣🤣🤣
@@zhugelianges in my opinion Larry was the smartest nba player in history. The most athletic player was wilt chamberlain. Everybody forgets about wilt and that is sad. But Larry definitely the smartest.
Simply put, peak Bird is surpassed by no one. There are a few who may have a claim to equal his peak, but no one surpassed it. Bird had a stretch in the league where it was basically too easy for him, and he could do basically everything.
what i notice is most players need shots to get in rhythm, bird got in to rhythm by dropping dimes, rebounding, starting the break and then take his shots in the flow. pretty genius style
the best players ever literally always have + will be #1 tied wilt chamberlain + bill russell #2 oscar robertson #3 kareem abdul-jabbar #4 michael jordan
The Celtics personified TEAM BASKETBALL, WHATEVER IT TOOK, GET IT TO THE OPEN MAN , FEED THE HOT HAND AND ALWAYS , ALWAYS PLAY TO THE LAST SECOND. THERE IS NOT A TEAM TODAY THAT COULD BEAT THE 86 CELTICS. NO ONE COULD MATCH THEIR TALENT ,GRIT , HEART AND PASSION. THANKS LARRY , DJ, DANNY, ROBERT, KEVIN , BILL . YOU ARE THE GOAT.
After a few years of amazing plays over and over again, you can hear how the commentary just expects it....almost like it's just a run of the mill pass, shot or play....when you can clearly see its actually an amazing play. That's how consistently good he was!! So glad I grew up getting to watch Larry play!! Magic and MJ too
Why didn't you put the games in playing order? Strange choice. But this video does give a real sense of the 1986 Celtics, in a way in which few others do. They were facing real, serious playoff teams with all-time superstars on them. Jordan, Dominique, Moncrief, Olajuwon, and they just ran these teams off the court. Bird is basically unguardable--he destroys double teams, he can hit any shot from any angle or range, he can post or drive (with either hand) or fade away, and then he makes 90% of his free throws. He's also a 6'9" forward leading fast breaks off of steals, who has essentially unlimited options in the open court. The only thing that stopped Bird was injury. In the 1986 playoffs, he was the most dominant basketball player since Wilt, and also the most clutch player other than possibly Jordan. How often is the scrappy hustle guy also the team superstar?
Bird had the most wicked jump shot as when he was hot, his shots of ball was always hitting the back rim going straight down after hearing that Clunk sound going thru. You can say its all net but with Bird, it was a gun shot to basket back end of rim.
Yes...not just when he was hot, but his clutch shot are so deadly that even Magic Johnson and Pat Riley were very afraid of. Top 5 players all-time. Period.
@@zhugelianges His Hall of Fame 3 Point Shoot Out at All Star event was one of the Greatest Shooting Exhibition, ever. He had that swag of Annie Oakly ( 1800s sharpshooter). The ones today can or has match his point total, but it was the way he shot.
Robert Carpenter. Bird used his left hand often because he badly injured a finger on his right hand the Summer after college, even before his rookie season. He seemed to adjust quite well, lol.
Paul Westphal and Bobby Jones used their left hand pretty well too. But it was primarily going to the basket for in close shots. They didn't shoot 10 to 15 footers with their left hand like Bird would occasionally.
Fantastic highlight reel of the master , Larry Bird . His genius and will to win carried over to all his teammates make him the most lethal player ever . And Bird is getting his proper dues in 2023 , look how many videos are fan reactions to his plays and his former opponents and Celtics talking about how great he really was . Even MJ telling his bros, after he was asked who his top 5 is and he mentions Larry ahead of LJ " No you dont understand , Larry was the best small forward to play the game " Michael knows , the Celtics swept the Bulls and MJ never got Larry . Hell, Larry is in LeBron's top 5 as well . Many "Egos " wont say it , but you can sure see it on their faces and what they are thinking ... GOAT.
Peak Larry Bird... a top5 peak - as an overall player - in NBA history! Then, you mix/add prime Bird to the best supporting cast he had (while also due to him being at an unreal level), when the team was REALLY clicking, McHale hitting his prime, Parish and DJ still balling, Ainge coming into his own, Walton managing to stay healthy as a 6th man, Sichting and Wedman contributing pretty well... just even more ridiculous! One of the GOAT teams, also.
Real, knowledgeable basketball fans, ex-players and historians know that Larry Bird would embarrass these overrated, entitled, disrespectful, modern-day plantation commodities in the NBA today and tomorrow. With the soft rules, no hand checking and zone defenses, it would be a nightly lesson. Too bad professionals have to get old.
You know the players these days didnt want this soft play style. They grew up watching the old era. It's because of the older era, these rules are introduced. It isnt like the league implemented these rules for no reason. It's to adapt and fix anything to protect nba's product. It was more physical then but because it was so physical, the nba made rules to where you cant be that physical anymore. That's why I usually say playing defense nowadays is alot harder then in the old days. You cant even lay a finger, bump, or touch the offensive player without a shooting foul being called. Back then you can control the offender with you off hand with the ability to push a lil or what not without it being called. So to me it's a little disrespectful when players say if (insert here) was playing, then he would average (ppg). Everyone's a product of their own era, so hypothetically inserting a player from another timeline isnt really a fact at all. Some people say shaq would dominate, but inside shaq like players isnt in high demand anymore. You gotta have a big that can spread the floor now. In shaqs day inside bigs was a must. Now you gotta do everything. The best prototype im talking about is like porzingus.
@@Majuuub I respect your intellectual perspective. My friend, you offer a valid argument, specifically on the eras. I am a former player from the old school that excelled in the 1970's and 1980's era of college and professional basketball. The overall athletes today are faster, longer, quicker, stronger, flexible and skilled at various positions. Still, there are many legends who would still excel in any era. You are accurate about the NBA looking to market it's product by al means necessary through the reduction of excessive physical play. When is the last time the public has witnessed a physical fight of punches being thrown? It won't happen because of the ramifications of career ending endorsements and loss of employment.
@@thegoat3153 Modern-day plantation commodities! Research the definition and learn about history, The Goat. It is apparent that you appear clueless about the professional game of basketball and historical legends that have elevated the sport. No disrespect intended.
Still don't know how someone who really couldn't run or jump could dominate games. He also made an unusually high % of forced shots but was so fun to watch
@@zhugelianges well I disagree, Jordan did all the plays that bird did b4 all he awesome shots were already done by Bird but not covered by the media like jordan, its the whole liberal media wanting a narrative. It actually dates back over 200 years. and they almost have it, get ready to work for water if you dont watch out..
@@nathanc30 86 Celtics is one of the best team and 86 Bird is at GOAT level best. But hey man, you gotta ask the 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers first, they are the one of greatest team teams ever.
@@nathanc30 I mean 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers will beat 86 Celtics, 86 Celtics may be the 3rd best team (after Bulls and Lakers) in the NBA history. What do you think bro?
The 86 Celtics were one of the top NBA teams of all time. I don't know if Larry was the best ever, but he deserves to be in the conversation, because you simply have to listen to what other great players have to say about him; including players in today's league, such as Lebron. (TH-cam is full of those videos). He got everyone involved in the game. A very underrated rebounder and probably the best passing small forward of all time.
if he is THE best? Nope if he is ONE of the BEST? Yes!!! See his 3-peat MVP! No one ever dominates NBA games like him during 84-86 and 86 Celtics is one of the GREATEST NBA TEAMS EVER! PERIOD!
@@zhugelianges I totally agree, which is why I said he deserves to be in the conversation. Look at Bird winning the 3 point shootout at the All Star game 3 years in a row. I also think he would dominate in today's league with the rules that are now in place. Back when Larry was in his prime, 3 point shots were rarely taken and the offense was run closer to the basket. Larry average only just over 2 three point attempts per game during his career. One of the top outside shooters in NBA history, but it was an inside game during that time. Bird was the top clutch shooter in NBA history. Pat Riley said that if he had to pick one player to take a shot to win a game, it would be Michael Jordan. But, if he had to pick a player to take a shot to save his life, it would be Larry Bird. In today's game, where you cannot touch another player, Larry in his prime would have been hard to stop. When you watch games of the 80s, Bird is matched up with many Hall of Fame big men defending him and yet his step back jumper was almost impossible to block. The game was so much more physical back then. Important playoff games resembled a hockey game with the refs keeping their whistles in their pockets and letting the players determine the outcome. I'm glad that I was around to watch some of the most entertaining basketball ever played. Take care.
When has the ball, the defender is kinda confused what to do...where he shoot. where he pass, or where drive to the hoop. or when he play up and under. ?...he has so many tricks that the defender who may be more athletic than him----is just outsmarted...Bird is a top ten all time...never will be another Bird
prime Marcus Smart ainy even Dennis Johnson lmao. broken back Bird still better than anything I've seen from Tatum idc how many points Tatum scored in a game Bird for the most part wasnt even score first. he would dominate Tatum in his prime
Maybe he made it look too easy. BTW, before hampered by injuries he could jump pretty well, it's just in many cases he didn't have to. Cue the highlights of him besting Olajuwon for a jump ball. His vertical of 28 inches is identical to that of Karl Malone. 99% of the game is played below the rim. Then compare to highlights of Jordan who of course was extremely gifted but often made plays look difficult, tongue wagging, depending much on his leaping ability, unnecessary moves such as switching hands when not necessary, a lot of one on one and posting up. Larry for the most part, just did what was required to win usually with economy and little fanfare. Exception might be when the game was in the bag such as the famous left handed game. That's what you do when the game becomes boring. Today's game caters to certain players and making the game needlessly more dramatic - euro step, step back jumper, double dribbling, isolation one on ones, showboating, poor defense because you can't touch the player. No doubt some great talent today but more about the individual player, less of a team game IMHO. You get the idea. Oh, LeBron would likely defend his opinion as the greatest small forward while Larry might say, hey, that's up to you experts to decide. Braggadocious vs. humble, well at least off the court. Larry is by far the most intelligent player of all time and it's not even close for second. Neither do individual stats tell the whole story. As great as he was he is still underrated. The 80's were also probably the best era in the history of the NBA. Here are some attributes at which he excelled. Surely you can think of some more. Court awareness Court vision Intelligence Winning attitude Leadership Involving other players in the game Laying it all on the line Never giving up Clutch time Pecking order Rebounding Offense Rebounding Defense Passing in traffic Passing down court in transition Shooting under the basket Midrange shooting 3 pt shooting Confidence Body control Resilience Thinking ahead/Focus Unselfishness Free throws Quick hands Quick thinking Strong hands Playing hurt Fearless Preparedness Intangibles Dedication Leader on and off court
You are sooooooo right! Thanks for that wonderful insight. Michael Jordan says its not fair to compare one player against another bec everyone's different and so on. But imo Bird is the only one I enjoy watching bec he makes the game so beautiful and he does it with a quiet finesse.
the best teams ever literally always have + will be the 76ers + barely even more so the celtics led by the goats tied being wilt chamberlain + bill russell
My favorite team of the 80's,i was called every name in the book for liking the Celtics,all my friends were Laker fans and i was the Lone Wolf, when the Celtics signed Walton in 86 i knew it was a championship waiting to happen,i didn't care how stacked the Lakers were,and they end getting beat by Houston,of course i laughed at my friends, but the 86 Celtics are the best team of all time, people say the 96 Bulls and i understand why they would say that,but we will never no
That 86 Celtic team coulda,beat anyone .Pick your 5 best players and put them against Bird, McHale. Parish , DJ and Ainge and it still would,nt be fair. Bird elevated that team beyond anything anyone had ever seen, his WILL to win was unequaled. He and DJ had a 1, 2 punch that would flatten any team, perfect ball control, passing , finding the open man, the loose ball hustles DAMN , THEY WERE ALL A HIGHLIGHT REEL ON STEROIDS. Birds greatest asset was his head, he knew where everyone was every second and was in the heads of the opposing team all game long. He may not have been fast but he made the other team play HIS GAME at his speed. When one player can force a entire opposing team to play to his pace you know you,re looking at the GOAT.
It's like someone broke open a glass with Bird inside that said, "do not open until 1979", or unless the Celtics and the NBA need a throw back player, Bird was old school, but could bury a brother. Greatest white boy ta ever play the game.
@11:42 remember Don made some negative comments about KC and the Celts loved KC and took it personal. You can see the Chief was sending a message in this game. Dont say bad things about KC. By many accounts KC was one of the better individuals on the planet.
Larry Bird was the best player in the league on his very first day as a rookie. Nobody has ever been better. If the 2022 Celtics had a young Bird, they would have easily swept the Championship. Today's basketball sucks and is unwatchable, like a 3 point show with zero offensive rebounding.
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For the next episode of GOAT series, please watch next:
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There's probably never been a better player in the league than 1986 Larry Bird
Yes, simply dominance
87-88 bird?
1984 bird before his back injury
@@davemartino5997 your right but 86 the team was firing on all cylinders
91-93 jordan
How can anyone question Bird being THE GOAT of basketball? Heck I would say the GOAT of team ball sports. I watched him play in Boston long ago and I'm still in awe of him watching his videos some 30 years later.
Thanks for your comment.
Bird's greatness is seriously under-estimated.
There's an MJ fan, Kareem fan, Wilt fan, or even LeBron fan who would feel the same way about there guy. Bird is on the short list, but to place the GOAT label on him is just subjective at best.
He was such an exceptional passer. You could have a 20 minute highlight of just his passing. Or his Defense. He was just a complete player.
He looked to pass first.
Larry Bird Greatest Passer re-edit
It's a great video 😁
He’s does all fundamentals exceptionally well
The only sports figure / player in the world that I could never grow tired of watching.
That Bird & Dennis Johnson connection was lethal
They knew how to pass the ball and share the wealth players today only care about their own stats and contracts .
@@davemartino5997 Jordan syndrome
@@davemartino5997and too often, where they're going to play next year.
Larry GOAT Bird. He played forward, guard and center in every game and excelled in all positions: shooting, passing, rebounding.... There has never been a player as great as Larry was.
Agreed!
He was an average defender
@@Q.B.2.L.B. You mean he was a smart defender, didn't have to waste a whole lot of movement?
@@paulazzar8936he didn't guard too well, individually. Nor did Magic. They played the type of defense they had to.
@@Amick44 He was not a guard.
1986 Boston Celtics in my opinion was the holy grail of professional basketball, so beautiful to watch the ball movement, the toughness, the blue collar attitude that these guys brought to the floor every night. Larry Bird was the greatest small forward to ever play the game, and I believe Kevin Mchale was the best power forward ever. Stone cold killers, never took a night off for load management, ready to fight at a moments notice if need be, injuries were just part of the game for them, they played through stuff that would sideline today’s players for weeks on end. Thanks for the memories.
I am not sure if Larry is really the greatest small forward to ever play the game…LeBron may have a question on that. Stone cold killers are what I agree with you. 1986 Boston Celtics is one of the greatest teams in NBA history, ever (Along with 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers).
@@zhugelianges It's a debate for sure...but I think Larry would excel in today's league and Lebron would (still be very good) struggle a (good) bit more in the 80's.. Of course we will never know but living through and avidly watching NBA during both eras I have to give the edge to Larry Joe.
@@zhugelianges Larry would destroy LeBron. He'd be flopping and there'd be no stopping. LeBron isn't a clutch player and Larry's trash talking would screw with his head to the point that he'd be useless. Look up the videos comparing the two on TH-cam. LeBron is a great athlete but I feel sorry for him. Flopping isn't normal in the first place. When he barely touches the other guy and bounces off of him hard and fast, especially when the other guy barely moves from it, it makes me question his mind. I think he needs help.
@@zhugelianges 80s Lakers teams were pretty Damn excellent
Maybe him playing through injuries is what gave his fans only 13 seasons to watch him. While everyone calls lebron soft for digging yet he’s about to play in his 20th season
My all time favourite player.
mine is + was a tie between wilt chamberlain + bill russell
Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan
@@MarcoJulio-k5n even Kareem said he was the best player no other player in history is in the top 50 lifetime in every category like bird is .
There is NO DOUBT in my mind. Larry Joe Bird is the TRUE GOAT. He hustles, he gets everyone involved, he can do ANYTHING, his court awareness & b-ball IQ are second to none....plus his shooting, rebounding, passing, and CLUTCH ability. I’ve NEVER seen a more complete package!
@MrVwbob what about Jordan Jordan owned the 90's but the 80's belonged to Larry and magic
MrVwbob
Larry Bird happened. Nuff said.
@@irishgrl Jordan was just a lot more entertaining with his freak athleticism etc.
the goats tied literally always have + will be wilt chamberlain + bill russell
I have Bird in my top five, both personal and critically. There was nothing prime Bird couldn't do on that court. Real Bird fans know the truth.
I looked this video up not knowing anything about Larry Bird, now I wanna know everything because WHY IS HE SO SMOOTH WITH ITTT
Magic:"When I played, Larry Bird was the only one I feared. A lot of black guys always ask me, 'Did Larry Bird really play that good?' I said Larry Bird is so good it's frightening."
Yeah that's not racist. Not taking about magic here.
Magic u r so cute
@@stephenstrang590 it’s ok when they do it apparently
@@davemartino5997cry buddy
bird is really underrated these days
he was always great even back then everybody knew he was great
He’s my top 5
@@vanlianthang2720 as he should be 💯
Definitely a top 50 player of all time.
Because players were respected in those days. The game today is ruined! Not enough diversity anymore!
If you judge both the team and the player, Bird made those Celtics that played with him the greatest team of all time. Teams win championships, great players make their teams great. In this context Bird is the GOAT and there will likely never be anyone that comes close to the Birdman.
Perhaps the Best Team Player that ever played in NBA history...
@@zhugeliangesRussell and Walton, too. If you're okay with counting defense first.
Was there anything this Larry Bird can’t do? Rebounds, assists, layups, fadeaway, passing, clutch shots, you name it. He did it all. Probably the best 3 point shooter of all time and if not definitely top 2 all time. Steph Curry is a phenomenal 3 point shooter but Larry is a true legend. I use Larry Bird as inspiration, his game and his quotes. Everything he worked for all about him was phenomenal. What a legend. Says something when Magic Johnson says your that good, that says it all.
As an old man who spent his life in Philadelphia I love and hate this man. I miss these great days of basketball, watching it on UHF channel 68 in Philly. Wasnt even on regular tv most nights. These guys made it worldwide
Love that turn around jumper at 19:22
When Bird retired, it was then that I too retired from watching NBA for it was just never the same!
What great times they were!
Thanks Larry Bird for all those unbelievable plays you made throughout your career!
GOAT
“Makes it look easy”… classic expression of Birds game
So unbelievable!!
Kids today have no idea how good 80's basketball was. Larry dominated it. They have no idea how good a shooter Larry was. Best ever? I think so.
That was the greatest team i have ever seen great players in great shape greatest team play i will ever see
My favourite player. There’s some sportsmen that make the game they play beautiful to watch. Federer does it, so did Zidane, Cruyff, Gareth Edwards and Sugar Ray Leonard to name a few in their respective sports. Bird made basketball an art form.
Agree with you, bro.
Bird made basketball an art form.
Great comment!
I felt that way about Ivan Lendl in tennis. Boris Becker came along and was better, but it was sheer power and not poetry in motion the way Lendl played.
Today’s generation will never understand how smart of a player Larry was. He used one muscle. The one in his head. I always here the question “could Larry play in today’s NBA?” My question is could today’s players handle getting beat up and pounded on all game playing the way they did back then. 🤣🤣🤣
True, Larry Bird is the BADDEST Man and SMARTEST Player that had played in the NBA, or at least I have ever watched.
@@zhugelianges in my opinion Larry was the smartest nba player in history. The most athletic player was wilt chamberlain. Everybody forgets about wilt and that is sad. But Larry definitely the smartest.
@@retiredwelder Wilt is underrated as fuck, dude has one of the highest peak in NBA history (1967). Bird is the smartest, no doubt about it.
Bird could have played for 20 years in today's soft NBA.
@@kennethward4985 definitely
Simply put, peak Bird is surpassed by no one. There are a few who may have a claim to equal his peak, but no one surpassed it. Bird had a stretch in the league where it was basically too easy for him, and he could do basically everything.
True.
Bird's Peak? 3-peat MVP+2xFMVP+2xChamps.
Simply dominance.
Matched by anyone?
No.
Not even LeBron.
Well said!
Sure Jordan came close and dominated the game, but who did he have to beat the Utah Jazz 2 man show.
@@kennethward4985 bird best everyone at one point or another in his career even DrJ , worthy , Magic etc Lakers swept Jordan twice on and on
Larry Bird was the best basketball player in NBA on the 80's.
what i notice is most players need shots to get in rhythm,
bird got in to rhythm by dropping dimes, rebounding, starting the break and then take his shots in the flow. pretty genius style
The best ever period!
True
the best players ever literally always have + will be #1 tied wilt chamberlain + bill russell #2 oscar robertson #3 kareem abdul-jabbar #4 michael jordan
#5 magic johnson #6 larry bird #7 jerry west
#8 hakeem olajuwon #9 shaquille o'neal + #10 elgin baylor
Gary Thompson wrong wrong wrong!
The Celtics personified TEAM BASKETBALL, WHATEVER IT TOOK, GET IT TO THE OPEN MAN , FEED THE HOT HAND AND ALWAYS , ALWAYS PLAY TO THE LAST SECOND. THERE IS NOT A TEAM TODAY THAT COULD BEAT THE 86 CELTICS. NO ONE COULD MATCH THEIR TALENT ,GRIT , HEART AND PASSION. THANKS LARRY , DJ, DANNY, ROBERT, KEVIN , BILL . YOU ARE THE GOAT.
All of them. Sichting, Wedman, Kite, Carlisle, everyone contributed.
Those last two plays were absolutely sick!!!!!!
Yes!!!
After a few years of amazing plays over and over again, you can hear how the commentary just expects it....almost like it's just a run of the mill pass, shot or play....when you can clearly see its actually an amazing play. That's how consistently good he was!! So glad I grew up getting to watch Larry play!! Magic and MJ too
Larry LEGEND!
!!!!!!!
The real GOAT.
Still the greatest player ,team mate ever in the history Basketball
I truly believe that as FacT.
The jelly layups of MJ and Kobe were difficult, but I understand how they made the play. Bird’s layup at 5:02, I don’t understand how he did that.
Why didn't you put the games in playing order? Strange choice. But this video does give a real sense of the 1986 Celtics, in a way in which few others do. They were facing real, serious playoff teams with all-time superstars on them. Jordan, Dominique, Moncrief, Olajuwon, and they just ran these teams off the court. Bird is basically unguardable--he destroys double teams, he can hit any shot from any angle or range, he can post or drive (with either hand) or fade away, and then he makes 90% of his free throws. He's also a 6'9" forward leading fast breaks off of steals, who has essentially unlimited options in the open court.
The only thing that stopped Bird was injury. In the 1986 playoffs, he was the most dominant basketball player since Wilt, and also the most clutch player other than possibly Jordan. How often is the scrappy hustle guy also the team superstar?
Why don't you do a video and put them in order..
@@jcjc248 That's not a terrible idea, though I'd probably use different highlights if I have access to them. Thanks for your constructive input.
@@SteveGellerMusic You should if you can
Jordon wide open jumper he know's Who is Mr' Clutch = Larry Legend .
Well said! Bird at this point in his career was the most skilled and best all around player I have ever seen.
One of the greatest assassins in the history of modern sports.
Larry Bird's IQ is more mesmerizing than MJ's athleticism. He was a killer and artist at the same time. Unique player.
Bird is a top 5 player
No doubt
So I’m changing my comment...Larry the Assassin Bird!
Why so mad？
zhugelianges you must be getting paid for the no of comments and subscribers.
@@DJVijilante I treat you as bro, please don't slander my fame or try to do some acts of defamation, or I will block you from my channel
@@DJVijilante Or if you have any evidence, you can post it there
zhugelianges 😢 okay let me ask you and I will delete my comment if you’re not. Are you getting paid?
Larry Legend. Enough said.
Well said bro
Running into that 86 Celts team was just a nightmare for everyone.
Not only was he making great plays, but also with the most outrageous manner; each of them were deserving some good trash talk on his opponents lol
Imagine doing 12:31 30 years before it became hip. GOAT.
00:21 Breaking Ankles too!!
That shot reminded me so much of Kobe lol. Just drained 3’s in front of people’s faces
As I watch the playoffs on going now. Then this, nobody comes close. He acted like his life depended on it.
He could dominate the game and had great court vision. He's just so talented on playing basketball, bro.
Bird was just lethal , a marksman of the highest order
Bird had the most wicked jump shot as when he was hot, his shots of ball was always hitting the back rim going straight down after hearing that Clunk sound going thru. You can say its all net but with Bird, it was a gun shot to basket back end of rim.
Yes...not just when he was hot, but his clutch shot are so deadly that even Magic Johnson and Pat Riley were very afraid of.
Top 5 players all-time. Period.
@@zhugelianges His Hall of Fame 3 Point Shoot Out at All Star event was one of the Greatest Shooting Exhibition, ever. He had that swag of Annie Oakly ( 1800s sharpshooter). The ones today can or has match his point total, but it was the way he shot.
@@user619tlsdca5 Agree, bro~
top 5 player of all time
Can't argue with you, bro
Who do you rank higher, Magic or Bird?
Just curious
@@zhugelianges wilt is #1 , jordan is #2 , russell is #3 , bird and magic are 4 and 5.
@@robfalter2522 Not bad, though I will put Kareem on that list lol
@@zhugelianges i have him at 6. its not an easy thing to do to make a top 10 list.
Greatest fundamentals team in history!
Bird loved playing against the Hawks.
He and Nique got up for the challenge!
His style is like basic fundamental basketball but quicker, and crazy precise with anticipated opponents movement. Crazy fast hands
Bird's defense is heavily underrated, yes, you're right, he had quick hands and can anticipate opponents movements. Crazy talent. Respect.
So, this is after having broken his finger young. When he was a better shooter, possibly. That's, like, insane.
Bird is just insanely good
Literary bird was the best offhand shooter he played a lot of games with a great left hand shots
Robert Carpenter. Bird used his left hand often because he badly injured a finger on his right hand the Summer after college, even before his rookie season. He seemed to adjust quite well, lol.
Paul Westphal and Bobby Jones used their left hand pretty well too. But it was primarily going to the basket for in close shots. They didn't shoot 10 to 15 footers with their left hand like Bird would occasionally.
Fantastic highlight reel of the master , Larry Bird . His genius and will to win carried over to all his teammates make him the most lethal player ever . And Bird is getting his proper dues in 2023 , look how many videos are fan reactions to his plays and his former opponents and Celtics talking about how great he really was . Even MJ telling his bros, after he was asked who his top 5 is and he mentions Larry ahead of LJ " No you dont understand , Larry was the best small forward to play the game " Michael knows , the Celtics swept the Bulls and MJ never got Larry . Hell, Larry is in LeBron's top 5 as well . Many "Egos " wont say it , but you can sure see it on their faces and what they are thinking ... GOAT.
Thank you for this video great job
Thanks bro
Peak Larry Bird... a top5 peak - as an overall player - in NBA history!
Then, you mix/add prime Bird to the best supporting cast he had (while also due to him being at an unreal level), when the team was REALLY clicking, McHale hitting his prime, Parish and DJ still balling, Ainge coming into his own, Walton managing to stay healthy as a 6th man, Sichting and Wedman contributing pretty well... just even more ridiculous! One of the GOAT teams, also.
Real, knowledgeable basketball fans, ex-players and historians know that Larry Bird would embarrass these overrated, entitled, disrespectful, modern-day plantation commodities in the NBA today and tomorrow. With the soft rules, no hand checking and zone defenses, it would be a nightly lesson. Too bad professionals have to get old.
You know the players these days didnt want this soft play style. They grew up watching the old era. It's because of the older era, these rules are introduced. It isnt like the league implemented these rules for no reason. It's to adapt and fix anything to protect nba's product. It was more physical then but because it was so physical, the nba made rules to where you cant be that physical anymore. That's why I usually say playing defense nowadays is alot harder then in the old days. You cant even lay a finger, bump, or touch the offensive player without a shooting foul being called. Back then you can control the offender with you off hand with the ability to push a lil or what not without it being called. So to me it's a little disrespectful when players say if (insert here) was playing, then he would average (ppg). Everyone's a product of their own era, so hypothetically inserting a player from another timeline isnt really a fact at all. Some people say shaq would dominate, but inside shaq like players isnt in high demand anymore. You gotta have a big that can spread the floor now. In shaqs day inside bigs was a must. Now you gotta do everything. The best prototype im talking about is like porzingus.
@@Majuuub I respect your intellectual perspective. My friend, you offer a valid argument, specifically on the eras. I am a former player from the old school that excelled in the 1970's and 1980's era of college and professional basketball. The overall athletes today are faster, longer, quicker, stronger, flexible and skilled at various positions. Still, there are many legends who would still excel in any era. You are accurate about the NBA looking to market it's product by al means necessary through the reduction of excessive physical play. When is the last time the public has witnessed a physical fight of punches being thrown? It won't happen because of the ramifications of career ending endorsements and loss of employment.
Plantation what??
@@thegoat3153 Modern-day plantation commodities! Research the definition and learn about history, The Goat. It is apparent that you appear clueless about the professional game of basketball and historical legends that have elevated the sport. No disrespect intended.
@@andresmith6591 u racist
*1986 Larry Legend Bird Regular Season Stats*
Bird 25.8ppg, 9.8rb, 6.8ast, 3.0stl, 0.6blk, 3.2to (81 games started)
*Fg 49%, 3p 42%, ft 89%* (3RD MVP) (3rd straight MVP 84, 85, 86) (4x player of week) (2x player of month)
*1986 Larry Legend Bird PostSeason Stats* (18 games)
Bird 25.9ppg, 9.3rb, 8.2ast, 2.1stl, 0.6blk, *2.6to*
*fg 51%, 3p 41%, ft 92%* (50/40/90 postseason)
*1986 Larry Legend Bird Finals Stats* (6 games)
Bird 24.0ppg, 9.7rb, 9.5ast, 2.7stl, 0.3blk
*fg 48%, ft 36%, ft 93%* (Finals MVP)
-MVP (3rd straight 84,85,86)
-4x player of week
-2x player of month
-10 triple doubles (league high)
-All NBA 1st team
- 50\40\90 postseason
-4th Finals Appearances (1986) 5 Total Final Appearances (1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987) (4 consecutive finals appearances)
-3rd Nba Championship (1981, 1984, 1986)
-2nd Finals MVP (19884 & 1986)
Larry Legend 🐐
Larry bird a demon and he was insane in his era, but he was putting people on the floor with a jab step that’s crazy - it’s a different league now
Still don't know how someone who really couldn't run or jump could dominate games. He also made an unusually high % of forced shots but was so fun to watch
Just like what Magic Johnson said:"He is so deadly that every opponents are afraid of him taking the clutch shots. He just killed the game."
This Celtics Led By Larry Legend Bird Can Beat 90s jordan Anytime At.
Larry 6
Mike 0
Bird is the GOAT better than all even Jordan
No...Jordan is the GOAT
But I respect your opinion, Bird is my top 5
@@zhugelianges well I disagree, Jordan did all the plays that bird did b4 all he awesome shots were already done by Bird but not covered by the media like jordan, its the whole liberal media wanting a narrative. It actually dates back over 200 years. and they almost have it, get ready to work for water if you dont watch out..
Larry Bird still playing against MJ for a Big Mac.
Zero overdribbling by bird or any of the Celtics
Very true, bro!
@@zhugelianges I think the 86 Celtics would beat any team ever in 7. Overall defense and the ball movement is insanely good.
@@nathanc30 86 Celtics is one of the best team and 86 Bird is at GOAT level best. But hey man, you gotta ask the 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers first, they are the one of greatest team teams ever.
@@zhugelianges are you talking 96 Bulls vs 01 Lakers?
@@nathanc30 I mean 96 Bulls and 01 Lakers will beat 86 Celtics, 86 Celtics may be the 3rd best team (after Bulls and Lakers) in the NBA history. What do you think bro?
Legend..... 🐐.....hands down,,,, imagine if he wouldn't of hurt his back...played longer,,,dominated even more???? Yep #33 who can ? Nobody...
87 Celtics would have obliterated Lakers with Len Bias
This was the greatest. I was 12.
Jordan Magic Bird my top 3 of all time
Respect your list, bro
amazing content keep up the good content
Thanks, will do!
They didn’t play the Cavs in the 86 playoffs
The 86 Celtics were one of the top NBA teams of all time. I don't know if Larry was the best ever, but he deserves to be in the conversation, because you simply have to listen to what other great players have to say about him; including players in today's league, such as Lebron. (TH-cam is full of those videos). He got everyone involved in the game. A very underrated rebounder and probably the best passing small forward of all time.
if he is THE best?
Nope
if he is ONE of the BEST?
Yes!!!
See his 3-peat MVP! No one ever dominates NBA games like him during 84-86
and 86 Celtics is one of the GREATEST NBA TEAMS EVER!
PERIOD!
@@zhugelianges I totally agree, which is why I said he deserves to be in the conversation. Look at Bird winning the 3 point shootout at the All Star game 3 years in a row. I also think he would dominate in today's league with the rules that are now in place. Back when Larry was in his prime, 3 point shots were rarely taken and the offense was run closer to the basket. Larry average only just over 2 three point attempts per game during his career. One of the top outside shooters in NBA history, but it was an inside game during that time. Bird was the top clutch shooter in NBA history. Pat Riley said that if he had to pick one player to take a shot to win a game, it would be Michael Jordan. But, if he had to pick a player to take a shot to save his life, it would be Larry Bird. In today's game, where you cannot touch another player, Larry in his prime would have been hard to stop. When you watch games of the 80s, Bird is matched up with many Hall of Fame big men defending him and yet his step back jumper was almost impossible to block. The game was so much more physical back then. Important playoff games resembled a hockey game with the refs keeping their whistles in their pockets and letting the players determine the outcome. I'm glad that I was around to watch some of the most entertaining basketball ever played. Take care.
Jordan couldn’t dominate a game that many ways. Bird in his prime was simply incredible. Best all around and purest basketball player that ever was.
When has the ball, the defender is kinda confused what to do...where he shoot. where he pass, or where drive to the hoop. or when he play up and under. ?...he has so many tricks that the defender who may be more athletic than him----is just outsmarted...Bird is a top ten all time...never will be another Bird
That was a great Hawks team.
And this was after he hurt his back!
Yes, can't imagine he could be still dominant after he hurt his back...pretty insane, man
Larry joe Bird..... enough said.
A prime Larry Bird can carry todays Celtics to an NBA Title. While a Washed up Bird was better than prime Marcus Smart.
prime Marcus Smart ainy even Dennis Johnson lmao. broken back Bird still better than anything I've seen from Tatum idc how many points Tatum scored in a game Bird for the most part wasnt even score first. he would dominate Tatum in his prime
Bron and Bird at their peak,. Bird is a mile higher.
0:23 badass 😊
Ankle breaker😎
@@zhugelianges with death stare lol.
Now I know where James harden took it from lol
Maybe he made it look too easy. BTW, before hampered by injuries he could jump pretty well, it's just in many cases he didn't have to. Cue the highlights of him besting Olajuwon for a jump ball. His vertical of 28 inches is identical to that of Karl Malone. 99% of the game is played below the rim. Then compare to highlights of Jordan who of course was extremely gifted but often made plays look difficult, tongue wagging, depending much on his leaping ability, unnecessary moves such as switching hands when not necessary, a lot of one on one and posting up. Larry for the most part, just did what was required to win usually with economy and little fanfare. Exception might be when the game was in the bag such as the famous left handed game. That's what you do when the game becomes boring.
Today's game caters to certain players and making the game needlessly more dramatic - euro step, step back jumper, double dribbling, isolation one on ones, showboating, poor defense because you can't touch the player. No doubt some great talent today but more about the individual player, less of a team game IMHO. You get the idea. Oh, LeBron would likely defend his opinion as the greatest small forward while Larry might say, hey, that's up to you experts to decide. Braggadocious vs. humble, well at least off the court. Larry is by far the most intelligent player of all time and it's not even close for second. Neither do individual stats tell the whole story. As great as he was he is still underrated. The 80's were also probably the best era in the history of the NBA.
Here are some attributes at which he excelled. Surely you can think of some more.
Court awareness
Court vision
Intelligence
Winning attitude
Leadership
Involving other players in the game
Laying it all on the line
Never giving up
Clutch time
Pecking order
Rebounding Offense
Rebounding Defense
Passing in traffic
Passing down court in transition
Shooting under the basket
Midrange shooting
3 pt shooting
Confidence
Body control
Resilience
Thinking ahead/Focus
Unselfishness
Free throws
Quick hands
Quick thinking
Strong hands
Playing hurt
Fearless
Preparedness
Intangibles
Dedication
Leader on and off court
Can't agree more.
Probably one of the best comment on Larry Bird I've even seen.
Thanks for your comment, bro!
Wow broha excellent breakdown. I wish you were broadcasting and providing analysis.
Larry Legend on my opinion was the best player ever stepped in the court.
You are sooooooo right! Thanks for that wonderful insight. Michael Jordan says its not fair to compare one player against another bec everyone's different and so on. But imo Bird is the only one I enjoy watching bec he makes the game so beautiful and he does it with a quiet finesse.
You forgot full court passing dimes
BEST NBA TEAM EVER
the best teams ever literally always have + will be the 76ers + barely even more so the celtics led by the goats tied being wilt chamberlain + bill russell
The 1986 Celtics are amazing! Best team ever 🏀 👌😁
傳奇
All the Celtics players appeared so relatively unathletic compared to everyone else, especially bird. Yet he was the baddest dude on the court.
Agree, he was the baddest dude on the court!!!
My GOAT. Larry Bird is the best passer of all time. Change my mind!! (But only if your have watched NBA for at least 40 years!!
My favorite team of the 80's,i was called every name in the book for liking the Celtics,all my friends were Laker fans and i was the Lone Wolf, when the Celtics signed Walton in 86 i knew it was a championship waiting to happen,i didn't care how stacked the Lakers were,and they end getting beat by Houston,of course i laughed at my friends, but the 86 Celtics are the best team of all time, people say the 96 Bulls and i understand why they would say that,but we will never no
8:34 Mirror image of the shot against LaSalle Thompson in 1991 Playoffs deciding game against the Pacers.
Larry's b day yesterday...fly bird fly my hero the hick from st lick
Can Bird play in todays NBA? 12:30 Easily
Dude was dominant on long range shots including shooting from downtown.
Could he play in todays NBA? Come one, that's a no-brainer!
Larry is not the GOAT. He is the GOAT killer.
That 86 Celtic team coulda,beat anyone .Pick your 5 best players and put them against Bird, McHale. Parish , DJ and Ainge and it still would,nt be fair. Bird elevated that team beyond anything anyone had ever seen, his WILL to win was unequaled. He and DJ had a 1, 2 punch that would flatten any team, perfect ball control, passing , finding the open man, the loose ball hustles DAMN , THEY WERE ALL A HIGHLIGHT REEL ON STEROIDS. Birds greatest asset was his head, he knew where everyone was every second and was in the heads of the opposing team all game long. He may not have been fast but he made the other team play HIS GAME at his speed. When one player can force a entire opposing team to play to his pace you know you,re looking at the GOAT.
Something about this play at 15:49
It's like someone broke open a glass with Bird inside that said, "do not open until 1979", or unless the Celtics and the NBA need a throw back player, Bird was old school, but could bury a brother. Greatest white boy ta ever play the game.
Anyone know where I can find full Larry bird games?
@11:42 remember Don made some negative comments about KC and the Celts loved KC and took it personal. You can see the Chief was sending a message in this game. Dont say bad things about KC. By many accounts KC was one of the better individuals on the planet.
7:45 Bill Walton falls twice in one play.
💕 💕 💕
0:22 Bird "TIMBER"
#8 hakeem olajuwon #9 shaquille o'neal + #10 elgin baylor
Arguably the Greatest Small Forward Ever, battling Lebron for that position.
um...tbh I would pick LeBron over Bird, but it's really close
@@zhugelianges Larry was a better shooter, better passer, better rebounder and way more clutch….I’m confused?
Larry Bird was the best player in the league on his very first day as a rookie. Nobody has ever been better. If the 2022 Celtics had a young Bird, they would have easily swept the Championship. Today's basketball sucks and is unwatchable, like a 3 point show with zero offensive rebounding.
Larry Bird , one of the all time greatest players. One major highlight : Michael Jordan NEVER got past him in the playoffs.
86 celtics greatest team of all time..Bird #1 Jordan #2 Magic #3 ....Team ..#1 Celts 86 #2 Philly 83 ,#3 lakers 87...
Respect your opinion bro
Nice Philly mention